Office of Rail Regulation (ORR) officials have said they have given approval for Network Rail to carry on the work to upgrade the West Coast Main Line, that includes more than 30% more train services and faster journey times; the entire project is slated for completion in December 2008.
”This news puts us on firm ground to press ahead with our plans to complete the ”8.6bn ($17bn) project to transform services on the West Coast Main Line,” said Network Rail chief executive Iain Coucher.
In response to the ORR announcement train operator Virgin Trains pledged to keep inconvenience to passengers to a minimum while one of the most intensive programmes of engineering work ever on a UK main line is completed by Network Rail.
”We are satisfied that, in reaching its decision, the ORR has taken into account all the issues surrounding this very complex and challenging infrastructure project,” said Virgin Trains chief executive Tony Collins. ”We welcome the ORR”s statement that it will closely monitor delivery of the project.
”Obviously we respect the decision and we will do everything we possibly can to limit the inconvenience to customers during extensive works, which will inevitably cause disruption. The test must be to ensure that the project is delivered on time and can be maintained to a high standard so that the new timetable remains reliable.”
The national rail consumer watchdog, Passenger Focus also commented on the announcement, backing the plan from Network Rail but warned it is vital that it is completed by the December deadline.
”In an ideal world passengers should not have to put up with the increased disruptions on the network, but believed this was the best outcome under the circumstances,” said Passenger Focus chief executive Anthony Smith.
However, the consumer watchdog is pushing for train operators to compensate passengers who will have to travel by replacement bus services during disruptions.